Speed, a pioneer and visionary, is the co-founder of Data Systems & Technology, Inc. (DST). As president and CEO, he directs a global operation that specializes in providing information technology (IT) solutions to over 20 military and civilian agencies of the federal government. These solutions include: management and engineering services, network management services, and test and evaluation of mission-critical systems that support military operations and battlefield forces.

Speed graduated in 1970 from SC State with a bachelor of science degree in mathematics. He received a masters degree in systems management in 1986 from the University of Southern California and a masters of divinity degree from Howard University School of Divinity in 2004.

Speed served in the United States Army for more than 28 years as a Military Intelligence Officer with worldwide assignments in South Vietnam, Thailand, and South Korea. He also served on the military bases of Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Fort Meade, Maryland, and Fort Huachuca, Arizona. He was awarded several achievements and service awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster.

Speed serves in various leadership positions in community, corporate and faith-based organizations. He is a member of the SC State Board of Visitors, the Northern Virginia Regional Board of Advisors of the BB&T Bank, the Hampton University Engineering Advisory Council, chaplain on the pastoral care staff at George Washington University Hospital, and associate minister at the First Baptist Church of Vienna.

Speed is married to the former Tonya Saunders. They have five children and three grandchildren.
For additional information about the Executive Speaker Series, please contact Dr. Ann S. Winstead, leadership and professional coordinator at (803)516-4864.